Professor and influencer Joel Marquez, known as Joel Defoe on social media, is one of the confirmed participants of Rancho de Maya, one of the biggest reality shows on the internet.
The participation represents a complete transformation in the Internet career of the teacher from the Federal District, who told the Capitals Who began producing content for networks under the influence of Carlinhos Maya.
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Joel already has two million followers on his social networks
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The professor is now a globally known influencer
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He is recognized by fans everywhere he goes
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Joel has partnered with major brands
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The professor says he managed to combine the two professions
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“I saw the influencer Carlinhos Maya and I thought it was interesting because he is from that little village in Penedo (Alba), similar to my small town too, with short built-up houses, and I thought: ‘Interesting, right?’ The person who managed to conquer the world became the king of Instagram. Then I thought: Can I too?
With a cold beer in hand and a pop song playing in the background, the professor has gained more than 1.6 million followers on Instagram alone thanks to his spontaneity and good sense of humor.
“‘Divo’ is not a character, it’s me. In fact, I’m more in the videos than I am here at school, when I’m serious, in this room,” he admitted. In addition to being an influencer, Joel is also a teacher and counselor in the Federal District public school system.
The series premiere of Rancho do Maia will take place on January 12, 2026. The reality show will be broadcast in real time through the profiles of Carlinhos Maia and other participants, and will include a total of 100 days of confinement, with the finale scheduled for April 21.